FIFA has issued a firm response to proposals that Italy should replace Iran at the upcoming World Cup, a suggestion put forward by US President Donald Trump's special envoy, Paolo Zampolli. The proposal comes amid ongoing conflict between the US and Israel against Iran, which has cast doubt on Iran's participation in the tournament scheduled for this summer in the US, Canada, and Mexico.
Zampolli's Proposal
Paolo Zampolli, a Milan-born envoy, reportedly urged both President Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino to have Italy take Iran's place. He argued that Italy's status as four-time World Cup champions justifies their inclusion, despite failing to qualify. The move is believed to be part of an effort to mend Trump's relationship with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, following a dispute over Trump's criticism of Pope Leo XIV regarding the Iran war.
Zampolli told the Financial Times: 'I confirm I have suggested to Trump and Infantino that Italy replace Iran at the World Cup. I'm an Italian native and it would be a dream to see the Azzurri at a US-hosted tournament. With four titles, they have the pedigree to justify inclusion.'
FIFA's Response
Despite Zampolli's efforts, FIFA has no plans to replace Iran with Italy. According to the BBC, FIFA did not officially comment but highlighted a statement by Infantino last week: 'The Iranian team is coming, for sure.' Infantino added, 'We hope that by then, of course, the situation will be a peaceful one. That would definitely help. But Iran has to come if they are to represent their people. They have qualified... They really want to play, and they should play.'
Iran's soccer federation also confirmed on Wednesday that it intends to participate in the World Cup. Iran qualified as one of eight teams from the Asian Football Confederation, while Italy failed to secure one of the 16 European spots. This marks Italy's third consecutive World Cup absence, a disappointment for the 2021 European champions.
FIFA's Discretion
According to FIFA's rule book, the governing body has 'sole discretion' to decide on replacements if a team boycotts. The rules state: 'FIFA may decide to replace the Participating Member Association in question with another association.' FIFA previously used this power to grant Inter Miami a spot at the Club World Cup, enabling Lionel Messi to participate despite the MLS team not qualifying automatically.
The World Cup begins on June 11, with the final on July 19 at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey. Iran's group stage matches include New Zealand on June 15, Belgium on June 21, and Egypt on June 26.
